Building a Stronger School Community: The Power of Engagement and Celebration

At the heart of every thriving school is a vibrant community, and central to that community is the engagement of its students – not just in the classroom, but in the life of the school itself. At our secondary school, we believe that learning doesn’t stop at the end of a lesson. It continues through the experiences that foster connection, creativity and confidence.

We’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that events and activities can have on our students. Regular school assemblies, for example, are more than just gatherings – they are celebrations of achievement, progress and unity. Whether it’s recognising academic excellence, showcasing student talent, or simply celebrating the end of a busy term, these moments bring everyone together in a spirit of shared pride.

Equally important are the many other groups and opportunities offered to students. For example, our Diversity and Inclusion group, facilitated by Kingston Youth and our Counselling team, creates a space where students of all backgrounds can feel seen, heard and valued. This initiative promotes a sense of belonging and encourages open dialogue around important social topics, helping students to become not only better learners, but more empathetic individuals.

Our school also offers a variety of fun lunchtime activities designed to give students a break from their academic routine and a chance to connect with peers. From music and games to sports and creative arts, these moments of joy and relaxation contribute to a more balanced and enjoyable school experience.

However, it’s important to address a common challenge: when students encounter setbacks – be it a disciplinary issue, a tough result or a social conflict – some parents, with the best intentions, may focus too heavily on the negative. This focus can inadvertently discourage students and stifle their growth. We encourage all parents to support their children in learning from mistakes, re-engaging with their peers, and embracing the positive opportunities school has to offer. Every child deserves the chance to move forward with confidence and support.

In partnering with you, our goal is to ensure that every student feels connected, celebrated and empowered to thrive – academically, socially and personally.

Parent Resources

Dr Justin Coulson Parent Seminars

Kilbreda has subscribed to the website https://happyfamilies.com.au/ .

Dr Justin Coulson has a PhD in psychology, is the co-host and parenting expert and founder of happyfamilies.com.au.  He will host a series of online presentations this year. The next topic is:

Emotional Regulation: A Heart-Centred Approach to Supporting Your Child, which is available to view on the on the website now.

Upcoming topics:

• Carrots & Sticks: Better Ways to Build Boundaries With Your Kids* (Wednesday 18 June)
• Anxious: Helping Your Child Navigate a World of Worry (Term 3)
• Entitled: Raising Responsibly, Respectful Kids (Term 4)

*You can sign up to receive a reminder about the 18 June webinar here.

SchoolTV

The SchoolTV platform provides schools with an extensive range of wellbeing resources for parents. See https://kilbreda.vic.schooltv.me/ for more info.

Jane Delahunty

Acting Assistant Principal: Wellbeing and Engagement